For Cleveland Browns rookie Shedeur Sanders, the window to establish himself as the team’s future quarterback could be shorter than anticipated. As Sanders prepares for his third professional start, the Browns announced Wednesday the return of quarterback Deshaun Watson to practice.
This action provides Watson, aged 30, a 21-day evaluation period to demonstrate his fitness for activation. Successful completion allows Watson to rejoin the Browns at any juncture within this timeframe.
Speculation suggests a positive trajectory, particularly after Watson was observed throwing during Wednesday’s practice session.
If Watson’s recovery falls short, he will be placed on season-ending Injured Reserve at the conclusion of the 21 days.
Should Watson successfully return to the field this season, the Browns might face a complex quarterback situation. Upon his acquisition in 2022, Watson was envisioned as the Browns’ quarterback solution. Early in his career with the Houston Texans, Watson exhibited exceptional talent, earning three Pro Bowl selections in his initial four seasons.
However, his tenure in Houston was marred by multiple allegations of sexual misconduct. He remained inactive for the team in 2021, despite being healthy, and was traded to the Browns following the season.
Upon joining Cleveland, Watson secured a fully guaranteed $230 million contract. Following his 11-game suspension, expectations were high that Watson would regain his early career form and provide the Browns with the franchise passer they had long sought.
Watson did return, but his performance did not match his previous level. Since joining the Browns, Watson has recorded only 19 touchdowns against 12 interceptions in 19 starts. Recurring injuries have plagued his time with the team, forcing the Browns to rely on alternative quarterbacks.
Watson has been sidelined in 2025 due to one of these injuries. He suffered an Achilles tear during the team’s Week 7 loss to the Cincinnati Bengals last season. A subsequent Achilles tear in January further jeopardized his 2025 season.
With Watson’s status uncertain, the Browns actively sought to bolster their quarterback options. Veteran Joe Flacco was signed as a starter, and the team used draft picks on Sanders (fifth round) and Dillon Gabriel (third round). Flacco was traded after a brief stint, promoting Gabriel to the starting role. However, Gabriel’s injury paved the way for Sanders to finally receive his opportunity.
Despite being a fifth-round pick, Sanders entered the NFL amid considerable anticipation. He has displayed glimpses of promise in his first two NFL starts, but has yet to definitively establish himself as Cleveland’s quarterback of the future.
If Watson is able to return, the Browns will need to assess whether he warrants another opportunity. While he is the more accomplished player and commands a significant salary, Cleveland has incentives to evaluate Gabriel and Sanders, as their performance could significantly impact the team’s offseason strategies.
